Bergeron would ‘definitely consider’ joining a new Quebec club

Though Patrice Bergeron has officially hung up the skates after a Hall of Fame career with the Boston Bruins, he has not ruled out making a return to the National Hockey League.

Bergeron, who grew up just outside of Quebec City, was in his home region for the Bruins’ pre-season game against the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday evening, where he was met with a long standing ovation as he dropped the puck for the ceremonial faceoff.

Though the forward spent his entire 19-year career in Boston, the L’Ancienne-Lorette, Que. native grew up a fan of the Quebec Nordiques, before their move to Colorado in 1995.

“I grew up idolizing some of the players that played, I think it gives hope and dreams for a younger generation, so obviously I can’t say enough good things about having a team here,” Bergeron told reporters on Thursday. “I’m sure having a couple games for the fans, for them to enjoy and be able to get close to the action and see what it’s like. It’s special, I’m sure.

“(The fans) love hockey. Even as a kid growing up, there’s neighbourhood rinks, outdoor rinks in each neighbourhood and it’s a pretty special time to be in Quebec City in the wintertime because a lot of kids are skating and you’re on the ice. Hockey is definitely the sport here and it’s obviously enjoyed by many.”

Though the Nordiques haven’t been in Quebec City in nearly 30 years, fans haven’t forgot the thrill of having local NHL hockey. If the Nordiques did make a return to Quebec’s capital city, as calls for an eighth Canadian team continue, who better to take part in overseeing the squad than Bergeron, a childhood fan?

“It’s a good question. It’s something I would definitely consider,” Bergeron said when asked if he would be open to joining a Quebec team. “I was a big fan growing up and it would definitely be special.”

Childhood allegiances aside, though, Bergeron won’t soon forget about the club on which he built his six-time Selke Trophy and one-time Stanley Cup-winning career.

“That being said, I’ve been a part of an organization for 20 years in Boston, which has a big place in my heart as well, so I don’t know what the real answer is to that, but it’s definitely something I would consider.”

Though he may be open to the possibility of dipping into management, either in Boston or perhaps, hypothetically, Quebec City, don’t expect to see him around a front office anytime soon.

“Respectfully, I think they understand that right now, I’m with the family.”

After 1,294 games played over 19 seasons, he has more than earned it.